Alaska Reservists minimize carbon footprint

  • Published
  • By Air Force Capt. Ashley Conner
  • 477th Fighter Group Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska --  In an effort to save money and be kinder to the environment, Reservists assigned to the 477th Fighter Group have been utilizing Share-A-Van, a carpooling venture sponsored by Anchorage's Public Transportation Department.

"My dad rode a van for about 15 years until he retired," said Tech. Sgt. Joseph McQueen, 477th Force Support Squadron. "I rode his van for a while and then I was approached by some (477th FG) maintainers in 2009 about starting one for the 477th."

The 477th FG currently has two Share-A-Vans shuttling sometimes upwards of 20 personnel from Wasilla and surrounding areas to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
The drive is approximately 40 miles and in the winter can take up to 60 minutes if the traffic slows because of inclement weather.

"I prefer taking the van in the winter," said Tech. Sgt. Heidi Dickinson, 477th FSS. "Tech. Sgt. McQueen is our driver and knows the roads and how to drive in icy conditions.

"If something where to happen and we slid off the road we are with a group which is better than being in a snow bank alone waiting on help to arrive."

Collectively the Share-A-Van riders agree there are disadvantages - but they are outweighed by the advantages.

"It takes a little extra time each day waiting for people to arrive in the morning and at the end of the day," McQueen said. "But the cost savings extends out further then just simply gas money, I'm not going through tires as fast as I would, I'm not getting as many oil changes or having as many break downs, and I'm not replacing my vehicle every three to five years.

"These advantages to me justify the little extra time and inconvenience and it helps the environment too."

The 477th Fighter Group, the only Air Force Reserve unit in Alaska, was activated in 2007 and the headquarters building, built in 2009, was designed to maximize energy efficiency and sustainability.

The group also participates in the base-wide recycling program managed by Tim Zellar, Weston Solutions project manager.

During Reserve Unit Training Assembly weekends, Zellar is also a member of the 477th Fighter Group staff and serves as the chief enlisted manager.

"Protecting the earth and conserving our natural resources is important for future generations," said Chief Master Sgt. Zellar. "We are so lucky to live in a place like Alaska where natural beauty is in abundance. It is our job to take care of it."

For more ways to help with the "30 Days of Blue and Green," visit the JBER Wildlife Education Center's Facebook page.